Facial Implants

Because well-defined facial features are a mark of physical beauty, enhancing the chin, cheeks and jawline can provide a more defined and attractive appearance. Facial implants can create remarkable changes by adding balance and definition to underdeveloped features.

Manufactured from a variety of materials, facial implants are available to augment the cheeks, chin and jaw. Implants are made from silicone or porous polyethylene. There is no current scientific evidence to suggest that any type of implants are harmful.

If an incision is to be made inside your mouth, it is important that you inform Dr. Waslen if you smoke or if you have dental or gum problems. If you do, you may be instructed to take oral antibiotics before and after surgery to protect you from infection.

Though facial implant surgery may require only local anesthetic, general anesthesia is also a possibility.

Chin Implants (Mentoplasty)

Your surgeon may recommend chin augmentation surgery often with nasal surgery when it is clear that a chin implant will add to your facial balance and harmony.

Frequently, for instance, a chin implant will be used together with rhinoplasty in a teenage patient whose face lacks the right proportion.

Chin implant surgery takes about an hour. During surgery, the implant (which is pre-selected according to size and shape) is inserted into a pocket that Dr.Waslen creates on the bone. Incisions can be made inside the mouth or in a crease under the chin.

The chin may be taped after surgery to minimize swelling and sutures will remain for five to seven days. If an intra-oral incision is used, dissolving sutures will be used.

Swelling and bruising may be visible around the chin and neck for about a week. During that time, you will experience some difficulty smiling and talking. Our office will give you instructions about dental hygiene and eating after surgery.

Cheek implants (Malar augmentation)

A patient may wish to have cheek implants to restore a more youthful appearance. In patients 40 - 50 years old, for instance, cheek implants can improve the contour of the mid-face and restore sagging tissues.

Cheek implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be custom-fitted for a more natural look.

Cheek implant surgery usually takes less than an hour. When cheek implants are inserted at the same time as another cosmetic procedure, the implants can be inserted through the incisions made for that procedure.

Alternatively, an incision is made inside your upper lip, a pocket is formed and the implant is placed directly on or below the cheekbone.

After your surgery, movement of your mouth and lips will be limited. Swelling and bruising typically last about a week.

(click here for more information on facial implants)